A fine antler netsuke of a skull
Unsigned
Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)
H. 4 cm
Naturalistically carved, the skull is finely polished and subtly stained to evoke an aged appearance. Of rounded form, with deep hollowed eye sockets, a pronounced nasal cavity, and carefully rendered teeth, the crown is further incised with delicate cranial sutures. A single himotoshi is placed underneath.
Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)
H. 4 cm
Naturalistically carved, the skull is finely polished and subtly stained to evoke an aged appearance. Of rounded form, with deep hollowed eye sockets, a pronounced nasal cavity, and carefully rendered teeth, the crown is further incised with delicate cranial sutures. A single himotoshi is placed underneath.
Part of the Japan collection.
Related objects
A bone netsuke of a Dutchman holding a pipe and having detachable legs
A rare bone netsuke of a Dutchman with a cockerel
Carved from a slender section of bone, most likely a walrus baculum, the Dutchman, with two asymmetrical himotoshi to the back, has an elongated body following the natural orientation of the material and is dressed in a Chinese robe with wave border.
